The Art of Giving: How One Crochet Doll Is Inspiring Community
Discover the story behind Kendra, a one-of-a-kind handcrafted crochet doll created by artist Geanne Trammel to support SOAR's mission. Learn how faith, creativity, and generosity come together to inspire collective giving and community impact.
Tabitha Keith
7/8/20263 min read


Meet Kendra
Standing approximately 20 inches tall, Kendra is a one-of-a-kind handcrafted crochet doll created exclusively for SOAR's Annual Fundraiser.
Dressed in her signature SOAR sweatshirt, coordinating skirt, crossbody bag, and shoes, Kendra represents a woman who is confident, compassionate, and purpose-driven.
To Geanne, Kendra reflects the heart of SOAR.
"The doll represents a Black woman who is confident, compassionate, and always moving with purpose. Dressed in her SOAR sweatshirt, she symbolizes the women of Sisters Organizing and Achieving Results—women who come together, support one another, and use their collective strength to uplift others. She reminds us that when women unite around a common purpose, our impact reaches far beyond what any one of us could accomplish alone."
Kendra's name was chosen intentionally.
She represents a woman who leads with wisdom, compassion, and courage. She believes that when women invest in one another and in their communities, everyone has the opportunity to soar.
More Than a Keepsake
Whoever becomes Kendra's new owner will receive more than a beautiful handmade doll.
They will receive a reminder that generosity comes in many forms.
"Whether it's sharing your time, your talents, your resources, or simply showing kindness, every act of giving has the power to change someone's life. I hope she brings joy while also reminding her owner that they are part of something bigger than themselves."
Every time Kendra is displayed, she'll tell the story of what happens when creativity meets community.
The Power of Handmade Art
Art has a remarkable way of bringing people together.
A handmade piece carries more than yarn and craftsmanship. It carries the heart, intention, and story of the person who created it. When art is created in support of a cause, it becomes an invitation for others to participate in something meaningful.
As Geanne shares:
"If this doll inspires someone to give, to connect with others, or to support a neighbor in need, then every stitch has fulfilled its purpose. That is the true beauty of combining creativity with collective impact."
Kendra is a celebration of artistry, generosity, and the extraordinary impact that can happen when people come together for the good of their community.
Bring Kendra Home
Kendra is being raffled to benefit SOAR's Annual Fund, which supports our annual grantmaking to Black-led organizations across the Triangle.
Raffle Details
🎟️ $20 per ticket
💜 One raffle entry for every $20 donated
🌱 Donate through SOAR's Grapevine giving page
✍🏾 Include "Kendra" in the comments with your donation to be entered
✅ Donations are tax-deductible
🎉 The winner will be announced live at the SOAR Summer Social on August 8. You do not need to be present to win.
Every ticket purchased helps support SOAR's mission while celebrating the talent and generosity of an artist who chose to share her gift with our community.




Behind every handmade creation is a maker with a story. Behind Kendra is Geanne Trammel, a woman whose faith, creativity, and generosity come together in every stitch.
Originally from Jacksonville, North Carolina, Geanne discovered her love for crocheting as a young girl. What began as a childhood hobby has become a lifelong expression of creativity and care. She believes every talent is a gift from God, meant to be shared in service to others. Through crochet, she transforms simple strands of yarn into meaningful keepsakes that carry love, purpose, and connection.
Today, Geanne lives in Newport, North Carolina, with her husband, James. She is a devoted Christian, loving wife, and proud mother of two grown children. Whether she's creating gifts for family and friends or crafting pieces for a cause she believes in, Geanne approaches each project with patience, intention, and joy.
A Gift Made with Purpose
When Geanne learned about SOAR's mission to bring women together through collective giving, she knew she wanted to contribute in the way she knows best.
"Creating this doll was my way of using the gift God gave me to support something that makes a real difference in our community. I love crocheting because every stitch is made with care, patience, and intention. When I learned about SOAR and its mission, I wanted to contribute in a way that felt personal and meaningful."
That spirit is woven into every detail of Kendra, making her much more than a crochet doll. She is a symbol of generosity in action.


